is dodge journey a good used car

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Used Car Report: Should You Buy a Used Dodge Journey?

Launched for 2009 as the crossover from the automaker who invented the minivan, the Dodge Journey went on to quickly become a bestseller with value-minded crossover shoppers.

Thanks in no small part to aggressive pricing, stand-out styling and generous levels of selection via option packages, powertrains and trim grades, it was easy to devise the perfect Dodge Journey for any need or taste.

Journey rides on a D-segment platform that housed other models like the Avenger and 200 and it offers a surprisingly car-like ride, despite its available seven-passenger seating. Flexibility, a multitude of storage options, and the famous Chill-Zone cooler compartment helped add appeal and set the Journey apart. Additionally, look for features like a sunroof, navigation, Bluetooth, heated leather, premium audio systems, and plenty more.

There’s four- or six-cylinder power and front or all-wheel drive (AWD) options. Notably, 2011 and newer units will offer the award-winning Pentastar V6 engine as the uplevel option, delivering 283 horsepower along with numerous modern fuel-saving technologies.

Consider the Dodge Journey alongside its plethora of competitors in the used marketplace — including comparable units from Nissan, Hyundai, Chevrolet, and Honda. According to many shoppers, the Journey’s long list of handy, family-friendly touches inspired from Chrysler minivans, as well as its strong feature-for-the-dollar ratio, should make this one popular with growing families.

Test Drive To-Do List:

#1: Avoid the First Year

As it tends to go with many used vehicles, shoppers are advised to avoid the first year of Dodge Journey production where possible, as the 2009 models had, by a fair margin, the highest number of problems reported by the owner’s community. Among the most popular of these issues were premature brake component wear — from the pads to the rotors to the calipers. If you’re dead set on a 2009 Dodge Journey, have a mechanic inspect these components carefully.

#2: Listen to the Suspension

After confirming that the stereo and climate control fan both work as expected, switch them off and head to a rougher road. Numerous owners have reported a clunking, popping, or thumping sound from beneath the Journey on rougher surfaces, particularly when decelerating at a low speed and encountering a bump in the road, or during low-speed, sharp steering maneuvers like pulling into a driveway or parking space. Unwanted sounds and sensations like these are your invitation to have the used Journey’s suspension checked over by a mechanic for worn-out components.

#3: Try the Fancies

Your used Journey may come packed with numerous high-tech features and systems, including navigation, Bluetooth, remote key fobs, push-button start, power seats, a backup camera, and more. Before agreeing to purchase, triple-check any and every function inside of the used Journey you’re considering that runs on electricity, right down to the power windows and steering wheel mounted controls. If anything isn’t working as expected, now’s the time to find out. Note that in many cases, updated dealer-installed software can fix niggling electronic issues, as can a fresh battery. Pay close attention to the touch-screen UConnect system, if equipped. If a software update doesn’t remedy a detected issue with this feature, a replacement head unit may be required, and if it’s not covered by warranty, it won’t be inexpensive.

#4: Check the AWD System

Have a mechanic inspect the hardware that drives the Journey’s available AWD system for signs of a potential fluid leak, and especially if you smell anything that resembles burning oil on your test drive, or if the unit you’re considering is a 2008 or 2009. If the AWD system is leaking oil, it may contact the hot exhaust, causing the offending smell. Oily drips beneath the vehicle are another sign of this potential issue, which is typically fixed with a replacement seal. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the AWD system’s maintenance requirements and fluid-change intervals, and to follow them, for maximum durability from this driveline component.

#5: Seating and Interior

Give the Journey’s interior a good check over for signs of excessive wear to plastic panels, kick plates, rocker panel sills, and the seating fabric or leather. Any abundant signs of wear and tear should be called into pricing negotiations. Pay close attention to the plastics and carpeting in high-traffic areas where cargo and occupants get in and out, like the rear edge of the cargo hold, and the outer edge of the driver’s seat. Be sure all seats flip, fold and maneuver as outlined in the owner’s manual, too. Finally, be sure the tailgate stays open under its own power, even with a slight downwards pressure applied, or you may wind up taking some sheetmetal to the head. Solution? Replace the gas struts that hold the liftgate open.

Your Best Bet?: Shoppers set on a used Journey can buy confidently after the model passes a standard pre-purchase inspection at mechanic of their choosing, and is confirmed to have a braking system that’s in good shape, and to be free of oil leaks from the AWD system (if equipped). We advise a 2011 or newer unit, with the V6 engine: mileage isn’t massively worse than the four-cylinder engine, though plenty more power is available. With lots of selection in the used market, and highly reasonable pricing, Journey looks like an appealing used buy in an affordable second-hand family hauler.

Good To Know:

2009 Dodge Journey Recalls, Technical Service Bulletins and Crash Ratings

2010 Dodge Journey Recalls, Technical Service Bulletins and Crash Ratings

2011 Dodge Journey Recalls, Technical Service Bulletins and Crash Ratings

2012 Dodge Journey Recalls, Technical Service Bulletins and Crash Ratings

2013 Dodge Journey Recalls, Technical Service Bulletins and Crash Ratings

2014 Dodge Journey Recalls, Technical Service Bulletins and Crash Ratings

2015 Dodge Journey Recalls, Technical Service Bulletins and Crash Ratings

Justin Pritchard, an award-winning automotive journalist based in Sudbury, Ontario, is known for his comprehensive automotive reviews and discoveries. As a presenter, photographer, videographer, and technical writer, Justin shares his insights weekly through various Canadian television programs, print, and online publications. In 2023, Justin celebrated a significant milestone, airing the 600th episode of his TV program, AutoPilot. Currently, he contributes to autoTRADER.ca, Sharp Magazine, and MoneySense Magazine. His work as a technical writer, videographer, presenter, and producer has been recognized with numerous awards, including the 2019 AJAC Video Journalism Award and the 2018 AJAC Journalist of the Year. Justin holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Hons) from Laurentian University, which he earned in 2005. His career in automotive journalism began that same year at Auto123.com. Since then, he has written one of the largest collections of used car buyer guides on the internet. His passion for photography, nurtured from a young age, is evident in his work, capturing the scenic beauty of Northern Ontario. Living in a region with a particularly harsh winter climate has made Justin an expert on winter driving, winter tires, and extreme-weather safety. Justin’s significant achievements include: 2019 AJAC Video Journalism Award (Winner) 2019 AJAC Road Safety Journalism Award (Runner-Up) 2019 AJAC Automotive Writing (vehicle review topics) (Winner) 2019 AJAC Automotive Writing (technical topics) (Winner) 2018 AJAC Journalist of the Year You can follow Justin’s work on Instagram @mr2pritch and YouTube @JustinPritchard.

More by Justin Pritchard

Join the conversation

If you're considering a Journey, you must be looking for a bargain. Your best bet is to stay away from the Dodge Journey. The 2011+ Dodge Durango and 2011+ Dodge Grand Caravan are much better. The 2010-2012 V6 Mitsubishi Outlander would be the bargain pick and 2010+ Ford Flex or Mazda CX-9 if you can get either for the right money.

• See 1 previous

I have a 2015 Dodge Journey (3.6 liter) and it drives like a dream, has all the space I could ever want, and was affordable. I specifically avoided the Durango due to the much higher price and larger vehicle profile. I avoided the Grand Caravan because... well, it's a van, and my days of hauling little kids are over. Your comments sound largely biased, with no factual data other than you seem to dislike the model...

I think there's good things and bad things about every car. I didn't cite Consumer Reports' Reliability Surveys, KBB's resale values, or my own experience in the car biz because I try to keep posts short. I'm glad you enjoy your Journey. I think loving your own car is more important that any of those resources or online opinions as I myself have a car that's also bad on paper but a car that I really love. With that let me explain. I think buying a used Dodge Journey is very risky. 4 cylinder models are slow and thirsty and the Journey's reliability is below average. Also a lot of Journeys have been rental cars. On the other hand new Journeys have big rebates, an available V6, and uConnect. Your experience confirms Autoguide's advice to buy a newer Journey 3.6L. I still think it's best to avoid a Journey as a used car but Condition and Price trump armchair advice.

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How Reliable Is the Dodge Journey?

Dodge has had a rough couple of years, and if the Dodge Journey’s performance is any indication, things aren’t getting any better . There is even some speculation that that FCA may not keep Dodge up and running beyond 2023. This may go some way toward explaining the stagnant design and overall poor reliability ratings for the Dodge Journey.

According to Car and Driver , just about the only good thing to be said about the Journey is that it is priced significantly lower than other vehicles in its class. As a practical vehicle from point A to point B, it could be a cost-effective option if it was sufficiently reliable. We broke down the Journey’s reliability ratings to get a better idea of exactly what drivers can expect for the least expensive seven-seat SUV on the market.

Substandard reliability and safety

Need more assistance? Give our customer care agents a call at 1-800-4A-DODGE. pic.twitter.com/eQPKEFhHYB — Dodge Cares (@dodgecares) May 1, 2019

Consumer Reports has only formally rated the Journey’s reliability for the 2012 model, and it was their lowest possible rating. Consumer satisfaction has consistently been at the lowest level for every recorded year. In keeping with these trends, Consumer Report’s predicted reliability and customer satisfaction ratings for the 2020 Journey are only 2 out of 5, so it doesn’t appear that they expect much improvement over previous years’ performance.

When it comes to vehicle safety, the Dodge Journey once again fell short. The Journey’s NHTSA safety ratings were acceptable with four and five star ratings across the board. The IIHS , however, gave the SUV low marks for front driver-side crashworthiness, headlights, and child seats.

The vehicle’s structure and safety cage on the driver’s side performed very poorly in crash tests. In addition, the IIHS found that both high and low beam headlights offered poor peripheral visibility, and failed all 4 tests on curved roads.

Child seat anchors received a marginal rating, with straps designed to be shared, thereby limiting the number of child seats that can be safely installed in the vehicle. With these kinds of ratings, the Journey’s reliability and safety are nothing to write home about. 

You get what you pay for with the Dodge Journey

Want to learn more about your vehicle? You can find your @Dodge owner’s manual here https://t.co/Cm35dFOrVV pic.twitter.com/VEsny1WGKW — Dodge Cares (@dodgecares) December 6, 2019

The Dodge Journey is priced significantly lower than other 3-row SUVs on the market, and it can be hard for customers to say no to the low pricing and late season discounts. However, while everyone likes a good deal, the overwhelming majority of reviewers say you get what you pay for. When it comes to the Journey, cheaper isn’t always better. 

Car and Driver’s review outlines a laundry list of the Journey’s unimpressive features, from its poor engine performance to its clunky transmission and the worst EPA fuel economy ratings in its class. The interior is equally unexceptional, with the smallest amount of cargo space for this category, crowded third-row seating, and cheap, outdated features.

The infotainment system is very basic, with no access to Android Auto or Apple Car Play. It is no surprise that the price is low, but reviewers don’t see this vehicle as any sort of bargain.

Will the Dodge Journey’s reliability improve?

For drivers who enjoy the curves of the road, the @Dodge Journey GT offers a high-performance suspension for a firmer ride. pic.twitter.com/aaMl1efBmv — Dodge Cares (@dodgecares) January 24, 2020

The 2020 Dodge Journey was released with fewer trims, and Dodge further removed the V6 engine and 4-wheeldrive options, leaving only the poorly performing V4. Coupled with the outdated design and lack of investment in upgrades, it seems that predictions of Dodge’s imminent dissolution may be accurate.

After FCA separated Dodge’s best selling vehicle, the Ram pickup into its own category, FCA invested in vast improvements and upgrades. Its dedication to improving the Ram further highlights FCA’s general indifference toward the remaining Dodge lineup.

Unless they launch a complete redesign, it is doubtful that FCA will invest in enough enhancements to effectively improve the Journey’s reliability and overall performance in the future.

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Amy Lockhart is a contributing writer for MotorBiscuit.

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Dodge journey pros and cons: what to know when weighing your decision.

Not all Dodge Journey years are created equal.

CoPilot Compare breaks down pricing and feature differences between Dodge Journey years so you can find the sweet spot between value AND reliability.

Source: Flickr

The Dodge Journey is one of the most affordable three-row SUVs on the market. Although it ceased production in 2020, it remains a popular choice for its price point. It also offers plenty of value - but is it a smart choice for a buyer? Before making any final decision, it’s critical to examine the Dodge Journey pros and cons.

If you’re interested in learning more about the best and worst aspects of the Dodge Journey, you’ve come to the right place. Though there are many places where the car excels, there are other spots where it falls far behind competitors. Keep reading to learn all you should know before deciding on the Dodge as your final option.

What We Love: Dodge Journey Pros

Everyone loves to see the positive aspects of a vehicle. Let’s first mention the benefits of the Dodge Journey pros and cons.

Ample Cargo Room

Although there isn’t too much cargo room with all the seats folded up, there is ample cargo room. Once things are folded and moved around, the Dodge Journey gets 10.17 cubic feet behind the third row, 37 cubic feet behind the second, and an astounding 67.6 cubic feet if the second row goes down. If you’re going on a journey, you can fit everything easily. 

Of course, many three-row rivals have similar numbers, which is where the Dodge Journey pulls out its secret weapon. This vehicle offers a standard in-floor cargo compartment that works as a secret hiding spot to keep expensive items or another storage space if you need to fit many items in one load. Cargo room is a specialty in the Dodge Journey.

OTHER CAR SHOPPING APPS ARE OUTDATED

You won’t realize how outdated other car searching apps are until you try the CoPilot car shopping app . CoPilot does the hard work for you by searching all of the listings in your area and intelligently creating a personalized list of the best buys in the area that match what you’re looking for.

Plenty of Space for Passengers

Not only is there plenty of room for cargo but there’s enough space for tons of passengers to fit inside comfortably. It can fit up to seven people, which is enough for most average families and two friends or some additional cargo if you need to take the kids to a sports practice or dress rehearsal. Seven people will easily be able to climb in and out.

The second and third-row seats in the Journey recline, allowing for a unique comfort many three-row SUVs do not provide. Also, it’s possible to get in the third row from doors on either side of the Journey. This possibility can be a breath of fresh air for parents who struggle to get their younger children into the car. Easy access means simple driving for the whole family. 

Practical Technology

Practical technology is another win for the Dodge Journey. There is plenty packed into the infotainment system, but none of it is so complicated that someone who isn’t great with tech will have to spend hours familiarizing themselves with it. It will only take a few drives to master what the Dodge Journey offers.

Popular technology in the Dodge Journey includes a standard 4.3-inch touchscreen, UConnect system, and physical knobs. If you want, it’s possible to upgrade to an 8-inch touchscreen for a few more technology options.

Easy-to-use tech is a win for everybody. It makes it easier to get from one point to another without delays from frustrating technology. 

HOW LONG DO DODGE JOURNEYS LAST?

It’s an SUV with plenty of room for passengers and intuitive infotainment at a solid price point. If you’re considering the Dodge Journey, you might wonder - how long do Dodge Journeys last ?

Affordable Price Point

The final thing we love about the Dodge Journey is the affordable price. The Journey costs much less than competitors, so long as you stay at the base trim. Since the car has been discontinued, you can find it even cheaper than the original price point. 

According to motortrend.com , the original MSRP of the Dodge Journey was $23,675. For a three-row SUV, this price point is low. You can even upgrade trim levels without worrying about spending too much on your next machine. It’s capable for what you pay for a used or new Dodge Journey.

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What We Dislike: Dodge Journey Cons

Where there are beneficial items there are also bound to be some that are less-than-ideal. Let’s discuss the less appealing side of the Dodge Journey pros and cons.

No All-Wheel-Drive

Unfortunately, the Dodge Journey doesn’t come with all-wheel drive. It’s not that you can add it on - it’s not an included feature in the system. Most consumers looking into SUVs wanted all-wheel drive in previous years, which means the Dodge Journey missed out on the chance to appeal to a large segment of drivers with this add-on.

If you get any of the Dodge Journey years before 2019, you can get an all-wheel drive option. However, selecting the 2020 version means it isn’t a choice. Stick with the older Dodge Journeys if you want all-wheel drive as an option instead of the standard front-wheel drive of the 2020 mode.

Limited Advanced Driver Assistance Features

Finally, there are limited advanced driver assistance features on the Dodge Journey. Although there are some, there are far fewer than many competitors. Perhaps this is the reason why the car doesn’t cost too much - you won’t get as much out of the Dodge Journey on the safety front. It’s almost a shock.

The Dodge Journey does have a few standard features. It comes with a rearview camera and rearview parking sensors, but that’s about it. If you want anything more advanced, you must go with another car selection in the three-row SUV market. 

Final Thoughts

There are many Dodge Journey pros and cons to consider if you’re contemplating this vehicle for your life. The three-row SUV offers ample cargo room, plenty of space for passengers, practical technology, and an affordable price point. However, it also has no all-wheel drive and comes with limited advanced driver assistance features. 

We hope this information was helpful! It can feel overwhelming to try to land on the right car, especially if you’re going for something as large as the Dodge Journey. Luckily, seeing the pros and cons should clear things up. Some people might not mind the issues, while others will note them as something they can’t get over. Only you can decide what’s worth it.

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2020 Dodge Journey

Starting at .css-1ykuyyb{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.2;margin-left:0.25rem;}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1ykuyyb{color:#000000;}} $25,170.

Select a year

• Lows Uninspired styling, dismal driving dynamics, needs driver-assist tech.
• Verdict Practical for families with a budget, but ultimately disappointing.

What's New for 2020?

Dodge cuts down the number of available trims on the Journey from three to just two for 2020: the SE Value and the Crossroad. The other notable cuts are the absence of all-wheel drive and the optional V-6 engine that were paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. The only powertrain available is now the antiquated 172-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder that is paired to a four-speed automatic and front-wheel drive. Buyers can look forward to the addition of standard rear park assist to all models as well as a standard sunroof for the Crossroad trim level. Dodge also streamlines the option-picking process with the introduction of the Popular Equipment Group which bundles many features together, depending on trim level. In the SE Value trim, the package gives you a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat, Uconnect with Voice Command and Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, three-zone climate control, security alarm, and a leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel. The Crossroad's Popular Equipment Group adds a universal garage door opener, remote start, heated front seats and steering wheel, navigation, and a six-speaker sound system with a subwoofer. Dodge has announced that the Journey will finally come to an end after the 2020 model year.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The price of the 2020 Dodge Journey starts at $25,170 and goes up to $30,090 depending on the trim and options.

With the absence of the V-6 and all-wheel drive for 2020, the rental-fleet-inspired SE Value version is our pick from the Journey lineup. With minimal options to choose from and minimal value added from the Popular Equipment Group at this level, we'd skip everything and stick with the bare-bones Journey.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Journey SE and Crossroad trims come with an underpowered four-cylinder engine that's best avoided—except you can't, since the V-6 is no longer offered. The 172-hp engine is woefully underpowered and the four-speed automatic transmission that's reluctant to downshift further dulls its real-world performance.

There are not many three-row crossovers that are entertaining to drive, so their ride and handling are graded on a curve. Even so, the Journey's ponderous handling and unresponsive transmission leave it far from getting a good rating from us. It wallows in corners with lots of body roll and imprecise steering. The benefit of this softness, however, is a comfortable ride on the freeway.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The four-cylinder engine has the worst EPA ratings among competitors with similar powertrains, with 19 mpg in city driving and 25 mpg on the highway. By comparison, the 2019 Honda CR-V is rated at 26 city and 32 mpg on the highway, while the 2019 Toyota C-HR is rated at 27/31.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Journey's interior is far from upscale, but its simple controls are user-friendly. Getting anyone to fit in the third row—even children—requires those in the second row to compromise their legroom. Cheap-feeling bits such as a plasticky shifter and hollow-sounding interior door-trim panels are especially egregious on the priciest version. Several luxury features including a power-adjustable passenger seat, cooled seats, and heated rear seats are notable in their absence from the options list.

Practicality is one of the few areas where the Journey shines: its interior is easily configurable and it has tons of cubby storage for odds and ends, even if its total cargo capacity isn't as large as some competitors. You can fold down the 50/50-split third row and the 60/40-split second row to expand the available cargo space, although the Journey offers the least amount of total cargo space of the vehicles in this class. In addition to the expected compartments in and around the console, there's also a generously sized bin under the front-passenger seat cushion, as well as two large underfloor compartments in the second row.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Although every model features an easy-to-use touchscreen, the system has fewer features than many other Dodge products. Likewise, the larger screen is responsive, but we wish Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability were offered here. There's also only a single USB port up front—not great for the device-happy spawn likely to inhabit the back seats.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Overall safety rating (nhtsa).

The Journey's lackluster safety report card reveals that it's not the best choice when it comes to sheltering your precious onboard cargo. Its crash-test results are not great, and—what's worse—it offers none of the advanced driver-assistance technology that is expected in other family haulers. The only available safety feature is rear parking sensors.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Dodge's warranty coverage is average, and Journey buyers won't enjoy complimentary scheduled maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

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Posted: March 7, 2024 | Last updated: March 26, 2024

Time to buy a car

When it's time to go to the dealership to buy a new car, there are so many options that it can get overwhelming. Narrowing your search down to used cars in order to get more bang for your buck can be helpful. Before you start shopping, make sure you know about these cars that you should and shouldn't buy used. These are the cars that owners keep the longest .

Car you should buy used: Toyota Camry

No surprise here as one of the auto industry's most reliable cars continues to deliver a worry-free, low maintenance experience for its second or third owners. Buying a used Toyota Camry might not be the best deal financially at the start because they are in demand and retain their value well, but you will likely not find yourself pouring more money into your used Toyota at the repair shop.

Car you should buy used: Kia Rio

The ideal used car combo is one that wasn't expensive when purchased new and is also a proven reliable ride for a long time after it leaves the lot. Kia Rio checks both boxes and as Business Insider points out, "hatchbacks are less expensive than compact SUVs to begin with, and as they are in less demand than crossover SUVs, they are a better deal for the buyer." When shopping for a used Rio, look back three years because while, "a brand new Kia Rio has a base price of just $15,390 making it one of the best new car deals under $18,000 ; 2016 models now cost about a third less than that."

Car you should buy used: Subaru Outback

The all-wheel-drive Outback is a rugged, high-mileage workhorse of a car that can be relied on to continue to provide a low-maintenance, low-cost of ownership experience even when buying a used model from upwards of a dozen years ago. Subarus are often considered good values both used and new.

Car you should buy used: Nissan Altima

Ranking as the number one used car under $15,000 on Carmax's 2019 survey , a mid-decade Altima scores big because it "provides the ideal balance of affordability, functionality, and style." While the price and performance will get you to sign the paperwork, it is what's under the hood of the Nissan Altima that will have you driving away happy because "the base engine packs a surprising punch with its 2.5 liter, 182 horsepower engine."

Car you should buy used: Toyota Sienna

A used minivan can be a mixed bag because you know that many kid-made messes have occurred inside the cabin, but a pre-owned Sienna, while it may still be hiding some crumbs and crayon nubs, will deliver additional years of solid performance for a new family. Toyota's reliability makes this a safe choice in the used minivan market. If you are willing to go back a decade for your next family car, Autotrader.com thinks you may be able to snag a Sienna for less than $5,000!

Car you should buy used: Honda Civic

If you are willing to travel back in time to the last decade, you can probably get a great deal on one of the most legendary reliable cars. Trusted Choice says that "the best part about Civics is that there are a range of models, all of which are affordable. In fact, you've got the coupe, sedan, and even a hybrid to pick from." Because there are always a lot of older Civics for sale, "you can probably get one [from 2006 to 2010] well within a $5,000 budget."

Car you should buy used: Hyundai Sonata

Thanks to a generous five-year, 60,000-mile warranty, many used Hyundais may still be covered when they hit the used car market. Add to that the extra benefit of a used sticker price about $10,000 less than the original cost for a three-year-old Sonata and you have one of the best used car deals available. You may need an affordable used car in a hurry if you see one of these 14 signs that your car is about to die .

Car you should buy used: Ford Focus

According to AutoTrader.com , "the mechanical simplicity of the Ford Focus means that parts are widely available and maintenance is relatively inexpensive." The popular used car website also notes that Focus models from 2008 to 2011 can regularly be had for less than $5,000, making this small car leader a top choice for anyone on a tight budget. A Focus is affordable to maintain but here are 30 things your car mechanic won't tell you .

Car you should buy used: Honda Fit

Taking first place in the subcompact category of Car Gurus' annual best used car awards , late model Honda Fits are not only funky and cool on the eye but a used one is easy on the pocketbook too. Car Gurus notes that "the smallest Honda has proven to be a standout in value retention" and that its "tiny exterior dimensions have long belied its spacious interior" which helps to make it a choice for small families as well as teens shopping for their first used car.

Car you should buy used: Volvo XC90

"Luxury vehicles typically lose most of their value over a relatively short period of time, yet the second-generation XC90 projects to keep more than 40 percent of its value after 12 years," according to Car Gurus . Volvo's award-winning, sleek and safe SUV is the top choice for a used SUV. Additionally, Volvo ranks as one of the car brands with the least number of recalls .

Cars you shouldn't buy used: Mini Cooper

They are almost too cute and have European style to spare, but the reliability of Mini models pretty much across the board, from the Roadster to the Clubman and including the classic Mini Cooper itself, drags down their value in the used car market. You will end up paying too much at the repair shop for this one.

Cars you shouldn't buy used: Chevrolet Spark

U.S. News & World Report has words of warning for used car shoppers looking for a cheap compact car. While pleasant to drive and a good value as new cars, "used [mid-decade] Chevy Sparks have poor reliability ratings, which means that maintenance and upkeep may erode any potential savings." Also, learn about the problem with hybrid cars that no one is talking about .

Cars you shouldn't buy used: Dodge Grand Caravan

"The Grand Caravan [from 2013 to 2016] has a low-reliability score, falling far short of class leaders," says U.S. News & World Report , who go on to ding the Dodge minivan further by noting that, "parents should also be concerned about the Grand Caravan's low safety scores, and while its low-rent cabin materials aren't a deal-breaker on their own, cheap upholstery and plastics mean that your new acquisition will probably already be showing its age." This van is one to avoid on used car lots.

Cars you shouldn't buy used: Suzuki and Saab

You may be tempted by a low sticker price on a used car dealer's lot but proceed with caution when looking at any model Suzuki or Saab. Why? As Business Insider points out, "you can often get a great deal on a used car from a brand that's no longer around in the United States but once that vehicle needs repairs, you may well pay dearly for the upkeep." In addition to pricey labor costs, "parts will be harder to find [as well as a repair shop that knows the vehicles inside and out] and thus much more expensive."

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2016 Dodge Journey

# 16 out of 18 in 2016 affordable midsize suvs.

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$ 11,715 - 15,845

Avg Price Paid

$ 20,995 - 33,695

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2016 Dodge Journey Review

Other Years:

U.S. News Rating

The 2016 Dodge Journey seems more affordable than most midsize SUVs, but a thirsty engine and a shaky expected reliability score cancel out much of its savings. Further dampening its appeal (and its standing in our rankings) are low safety ratings, an underpowered base engine, and a small cargo area.

Sleek, intuitive infotainment system

Versatile seating and cargo features

Low price for a midsize crossover

Poor safety and reliability scores

Weak base engine

Small cargo area for the class

What's New for 2016

Reshuffling of trim levels

Features and Specs

Seats 5 - 7

16-19 City / 24-26 Hwy

173 - 283 horsepower

Dodge Journey Rankings

The 2016 Dodge Journey's #16 ranking is based on its score within the 2016 Affordable Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Dodge Journey has a score of 7.3 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 46 pieces of research and data elements using various sources .

• # 16 in 2016 Affordable Midsize SUVs
• # 19 in 2016 Affordable SUVs with 3 Rows
• # 36 in 2016 Affordable Crossover SUVs
• # 58 in Used SUVs with 3 Rows under $15K
• # 117 in Used Crossover SUVs $10K to $15K
• # 173 in Used Midsize SUVs under $20K
• Critics' Rating 7.5
• Performance 6.8
• Total Cost of Ownership 8.9
• Interior 7.8

Where This Vehicle Ranks

2016 Chevrolet Traverse

$15,740 - $19,012 AVG PRICE PAID

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe

$14,541 - $17,210 AVG PRICE PAID

2016 Buick Enclave

$17,080 - $20,584 AVG PRICE PAID

2016 Mazda CX-9

$17,456 - $24,600 AVG PRICE PAID

2016 Nissan Murano

$15,294 - $18,916 AVG PRICE PAID

$11,715 - $15,845 AVG PRICE PAID

2016 Journey Photos

2016 Dodge Journey Overview

Is the 2016 dodge journey a good used suv.

Unless you need the absolute cheapest 3-row vehicle you can find, you should look elsewhere. The 2016 Journey is laden with black marks, like a low safety rating, an anemic base engine, and lower-than-average reliability – though a few interior perks attempt to offset these issues.

Why You Can Trust Us

Our Dodge Journey review includes far more than just one person's opinion. We collected professional evaluations from more than 40 sources and combined them with concrete data like fuel economy estimates, safety features, and performance specs to help you make an informed buying decision.

At U.S. News & World Report, we rank the Best Jobs , Best Hospitals , and Best Colleges to guide readers through some of life’s most complicated decisions. We've been ranking and reviewing the Best Cars since 2007, backed by a team with more than 75 years of combined automotive experience. To keep favoritism out of the picture, we maintain a separate advertising team and decline expensive gifts and trips from car companies.

How Much is a 2016 Dodge Journey?

The Journey’s purchase price is its primary strength. Its average price tag of $17,900 is several thousand dollars less than most other used midsize SUVs. Overall, prices range from $14,000 to $22,000 (based on 2,200 listings for the 2016 Journey on our site). The exact price you’ll pay depends on the vehicle's mileage, condition, and trim level.

See the Best Used Car Deals »

How Much Does the 2016 Dodge Journey Cost to Own?

The 2016 Journey's five-year costs for gas, repairs, maintenance, and insurance are $24,300. That’s similar to what you'll spend if you own a Hyundai Santa Fe , Kia Sorento , or Ford Flex .

Is It Better to Buy a Used or New Journey?

If you're set on buying a Journey, it's best to buy used. None of the faults that affect the 2016 Journey have been rectified for the 2018 model year. The new Journey still bears a history of subpar safety and reliability scores, uninspiring engines, and little cargo space. In fact, the only advantages of buying a 2018 Journey are its new car warranty and its standard third-row seats (only an option in the 2016 model). The fact that the MSRP for a base 2018 Journey ($22,495) is $4,600 more than the starting price of a 2016 Journey further solidifies the used model as the better buy.

Read about the new Dodge Journey »

You'll be hard-pressed to find a new SUV with more than five seats that costs less than a used Journey. That's because the Journey's price tag is one of the lowest among 3-row SUVs. One option is to step down to a smaller crossover SUV. These cost an extra $1,700 or so, but with the help of a cash back bonus or another new car deal , you might be able to get close to the 2016 Journey's average price. For example, the 2018 Honda HR-V , one of the least expensive 2-row SUVs you can buy new, will run you around $19,670 (before incentives).

See the Best New Car Deals »

See the Best New Car Lease Deals »

How Reliable Is the 2016 Dodge Journey?

Reliability is one of the 2016 Journey’s red flags. J.D. Power gave it a score of 2.5 out of five. That’s a below-average score for the industry, and one of the worst ratings in its class.

Read more about Journey reliability »

2016 Dodge Journey Recalls

At the time of this writing, three recalls have been issued on the 2016 Journey. The largest recall addresses a problem with an engine sensor that may work intermittently, causing the engine to stall. Additional recalls relate to the transmission pump and a power steering hose. Not all of these recalls affect every 2016 Journey, but a quick VIN search can reveal which ones are relevant to the vehicle you are considering. Make sure that any applicable recalls are addressed before you buy.

See more information on Dodge Journey safety recalls »

Which Model Year of the Dodge Journey Is Best?

Dodge first launched the Journey for the 2009 model year, and the 2018 Journey is included in the same generation. The crossover underwent a major refresh for 2011, but little has been altered in recent years (beyond minor tweaks to the cosmetics and trim levels). Scores are also similar throughout the generation, though the 2014 model scored higher in reliability than any other Journey thus far. For this reason – and its considerably lower price – the 2014 Journey stands out as the best model year to buy.

Compare the 2014, 2015, and 2016 Journey »

Which Used Dodge Journey Is Right for Me?

The Dodge Journey offers a range of options for shoppers. There are five trims to pick from: SE, SXT, Crossroad, Crossroad Plus, and R/T. You can also choose between seating for five or seven, two different engines, and front- or all-wheel drive. You'll find one of the best values with the Dodge Journey SXT. It comes standard with third-row seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and aluminum wheels, and it's available with the V6 engine and AWD.

See 2016 Dodge Journey trims and specs »

2016 Dodge Journey Safety

Score: 8.4/10.

The 2016 Journey's safety rating is below average for the class. It earned the lowest rating, Poor, in the small overlap front crash test (which mimics the corner of your car hitting an object) administered by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The IIHS gave the Journey a Good rating for all other tests, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave it four out of five stars overall, which is also below average for the class.

Additionally, the Journey doesn't come standard with any advanced safety features. A rearview camera is available, though many rivals offer one as standard. Some used Journeys may also come with rear parking sensors. In comparison, many competitors are available with advanced safety features that the Journey lacks completely, such as lane departure alert and automatic pre-collision braking.

2016 Dodge Journey Versus the Competition

Unless price is your sole consideration, other vehicles will serve you better in the long run. For example, compact SUV rivals like the Nissan Rogue and Ford Escape may technically be a class below the Journey, but they offer similar features for the money and are almost as spacious. Midsize rivals like the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe cost more, but they are larger and offer better performance.

Which Is Better: 2016 Dodge Journey or 2016 Dodge Durango?

It would be appropriate to label the Journey a Dodge Durango Lite. Both are categorized as midsize SUVs, with the Durango boasting a standard third-row seat, better crash test scores, and more powerful engines. You'll pay thousands of dollars more for these gains, though.

Which Is Better: 2016 Dodge Journey or 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander?

A Mitsubishi Outlander costs about as much as a Journey, but it pulls ahead of the Dodge in one key area: safety. The IIHS named it a 2016 Top Safety Pick+ (its highest safety designation), and its available safety technology includes lane departure warning and forward collision avoidance.

Which Is Better: 2016 Dodge Journey or 2016 Nissan Rogue?

Though it's a compact SUV , the Nissan Rogue has more cargo space than the Journey. It also gets better fuel economy, has higher safety ratings, and is within spitting distance of the Journey's base price. You’ll get a more polished vehicle all-around, proving that you don't have to scrimp on refinement to save money.

Compare the Journey, Durango, and Outlander »

2016 Journey Performance

How does the 2016 dodge journey drive.

The Journey doesn't quite measure its zero-to-60-mph time with a sundial, but its four-cylinder engine delivers decidedly less power than most of its crossover rivals. It's paired with a four-speed automatic transmission (also trifling, as most competitors use at least a six-speed) that's slow from a stop. If you need to go anywhere quickly or want to take more than two people with you, the V6 engine is a worthwhile upgrade. While it's not the most impressive V6 in the class, the increase in performance is noticeable when climbing hills and passing on the highway, and your gas mileage won't be reduced by much. V6 models have a six-speed automatic.

This Dodge crossover's ride is quite nice, even over potholes and bumps. It leans heavily in corners, diminishing your confidence and comfort in higher-speed turns (on exit ramps, for instance). However, that's not unusual in these tall crossover vehicles, and the Journey's handling is still competent enough that it shouldn’t cause you undue stress.

Does the 2016 Dodge Journey Get Good Gas Mileage?

Unfortunately, the Journey's lackluster acceleration doesn't reward you with decent fuel economy: Its fuel rating of 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway is mediocre for a crossover this size.

2016 Dodge Journey Towing Capacity

You can't tow as much with a Journey as you can with many other midsize SUVs. Journey models equipped with a four-cylinder engine can tow up to 1,000 pounds, while V6-equipped Journeys can tow 2,500 pounds.

Read more about Journey performance »

2016 Journey Interior

How many people does the 2016 journey seat.

The Journey's best assets are inside, where you'll find high-quality materials and flexible storage features and seating. The first two rows are comfortable for five adults, and it can accommodate two more children or smaller adults in the available third row.

How Many Car Seats Fit in the 2016 Dodge Journey?

You can clip child safety seats into upper and lower anchors on any of the three seats in the second row. However, installing a car seat in the Journey using the LATCH hardware takes more time than you’d expect. The system’s faults earn it a Marginal rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for ease of use. Built-in booster seats are available for the second row, which is rare for the class.

2016 Dodge Journey Features

The Journey comes with a 4.3-inch touch screen, and an extra-large 8.4-inch touch screen is available in higher trims. The larger screen comes with Dodge's Uconnect infotainment system, which is one of the best setups on the market. It has an intuitive and smartphonelike layout, large text and icons, and a responsive screen. There are separate knobs for major settings like volume and temperature.

See 2016 Dodge Journey specs »

Read more about Journey interior »

2016 Dodge Journey Dimensions

Dodge journey cargo space.

There are plenty of storage bins around the cabin and under the floor, which is especially convenient given that the Journey's cargo area is one of the smallest among similarly sized SUVs. Two-row models have 39.6 cubic feet of space behind the seats, and 3-row models have only 10.7. Folding down all the seats nets almost 68 cubic feet of space in total.

Dodge Journey Length and Weight

The Journey is a 16-foot-long SUV. It weighs between 3,818 and 4,238 pounds, depending on how it's equipped.

Where Was the 2016 Dodge Journey Built?

Dodge built the 2016 Journey at its factory in Toluca, Mexico.

Other Years

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U.S. News Best Cars Awards

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Journey Shoppers Should Also Consider

# 1 in 2016 Affordable Midsize SUVs

# 2 in 2016 Affordable Midsize SUVs

# 3 in 2016 Affordable Midsize SUVs

# 4 in 2016 Affordable Midsize SUVs

Used Dodge Journey for Sale Near Me

2020 Dodge Journey Crossroad 4dr SUV

• Back-up camera
• Sunroof/Moonroof
• Keyless Entry/Start
• Third-row seating

Located in Austin , TX / 1,094 miles away from Rutland, ND

Transfer of vehicle from another location to your neighborhood Enterprise Car Sales may require payment of a non-refundable transfer fee to begin the ...

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

Accident Free Vehicle : Yes

Personal Use Only : No

History Provider : AutoCheck

Title Details : Clean Title

Salvage Vehicle : No

Frame Damage : No

Theft History : No

Lemon Status : No

Free History Report : No

Features and Specs:

21 Combined MPG ( 19 City/ 25 Highway)

Listing Information:

VIN: 3C4PDCGB9LT263865 Stock: 7TRMW1 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 02-13-2024

2020 Dodge Journey SE Value 4dr SUV

• Tire Pressure Warnin...
• Parking sensors

Located in Augusta , GA / 1,189 miles away from Rutland, ND

VIN: 3C4PDCAB8LT273215 Stock: 7T9H4C Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 01-05-2024

2019 Dodge Journey SE 4dr SUV

Located in Red Springs , NC / 1,233 miles away from Rutland, ND

Destroyer Gray Clearcoat exterior and Black interior. Third Row Seat, CD Player, Back-Up Camera, iPod/MP3 Input, ENGINE: 2.4L I4 DOHC 16V DUAL VVT, TR...

VIN: 3C4PDCBB2KT815860 Stock: P32482 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 02-28-2024

Located in Plano , TX / 902 miles away from Rutland, ND

VIN: 3C4PDCGB7LT267901 Stock: 7TYDRG Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 01-15-2024

Located in Arlington , TX / 920 miles away from Rutland, ND

VIN: 3C4PDCGB1LT264041 Stock: 7TRHR9 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 01-30-2024

Located in Fort Worth , TX / 906 miles away from Rutland, ND

VIN: 3C4PDCGB7LT267560 Stock: 7TXSRD Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 01-23-2024

Located in Oklahoma City , OK / 722 miles away from Rutland, ND

Personal Use Only : Yes

VIN: 3C4PDCBB2KT869546 Stock: 8F0RY8 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 03-14-2024

Located in Spring Lake Park , MN / 216 miles away from Rutland, ND

VIN: 3C4PDCAB5LT260681 Stock: 8D47K2 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 01-12-2024

2018 Dodge Journey SE 4dr SUV

Located in San Antonio , TX / 1,150 miles away from Rutland, ND

At Carvana, we go miles beyond the extra mile. That's why we provide you with a convenient, fast, and hassle-free car buying experience that puts you ...

VIN: 3C4PDCABXJT385656 Stock: 2002645292 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 12-07-2023

Located in Fayetteville , NC / 1,230 miles away from Rutland, ND

VIN: 3C4PDCAB2LT182487 Stock: 8D89S9 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 03-19-2024

2019 Dodge Journey SE Value Package 4dr SUV

Located in Memphis , TN / 853 miles away from Rutland, ND

VIN: 3C4PDCAB6KT859331 Stock: 2002761823 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 02-28-2024

2018 Dodge Journey Crossroad 4dr SUV

Located in Phoenix , AZ / 1,155 miles away from Rutland, ND

VIN: 3C4PDCGG9JT421193 Stock: 2002773393 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 03-22-2024

Located in Beaverton , OR / 1,216 miles away from Rutland, ND

VIN: 3C4PDCBB7KT866044 Stock: 8C2R0X Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 03-26-2024

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary Unavailable.

VIN: 3C4PDCBB9KT804757 Stock: 8FKH4V Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 03-05-2024

Located in Tampa , FL / 1,491 miles away from Rutland, ND

VIN: 3C4PDCAB5LT273737 Stock: 7T9H3B Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 02-15-2024

Located in Houston , TX / 1,114 miles away from Rutland, ND

VIN: 3C4PDCAB1LT199281 Stock: 7VR1RW Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 01-08-2024

Located in Atlanta , GA / 1,091 miles away from Rutland, ND

VIN: 3C4PDCAB7JT383296 Stock: 2002814689 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 03-21-2024

2016 Dodge Journey Crossroad Plus 4dr SUV

• Power Driver Seat

VIN: 3C4PDCGG5GT146169 Stock: 2002805689 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 03-28-2024

Located in New Port Richey , FL / 1,470 miles away from Rutland, ND

Odometer is 21585 miles below market average! Priced below KBB Fair Purchase Price! CARFAX One-Owner. Clean CARFAX. ONE OWNER!, CLEAN CARFAX!, BACK-UP...

VIN: 3C4PDCAB4LT274202 Stock: M23738A Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 02-24-2024

Located in Dallas , TX / 917 miles away from Rutland, ND

VIN: 3C4PDCBB3KT863206 Stock: 2002799940 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 03-20-2024

VIN: 3C4PDCAB3JT518578 Stock: 2002827560 Certified Pre-Owned: No Listed since: 04-05-2024

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Consumer Reviews for the Dodge   Journey

• 5 star ( 35 %)
• 4 star ( 21 %)
• 3 star ( 19 %)
• 2 star ( 14 %)
• 1 star ( 11 %)

Dodge Journey best suv I ever owned.

Used dodge journey by year, more about the dodge journey.

Edmunds has 4,593 Used Dodge Journeys for sale near you, including a 2018 Journey SE SUV and a 2016 Journey Crossroad Plus SUV ranging in price from $13,990 to $19,590.

How much is the used Dodge Journey?

Is the used dodge journey a good car, where to buy a used dodge journey, what to look for when buying a used dodge journey, how reliable is the dodge journey.

• Certified Pre-Owned
• Dodge Journey
• Home delivery available
• Only show local listings

Make & Model

• Used ( 104 )
• Certified Pre-Owned ( 1 )

Price & Payment

Price rating.

Edmunds' ratings are backed by 15+ years of pricing research done by our data scientists How are ratings determined? We analyze millions of data points to generate our ratings. We look at vehicle configuration, options, history, nearby transactions, market pricing and more — the ratings are up-to-date and relevant to your search area.

• Good Price ( 19 )
• Fair Price ( 42 )
• Crossroad ( 38 )
• SE Value ( 14 )
• Crossroad Plus ( 5 )
• SE Value Package ( 3 )

Vehicle History

• One Owner ( 37 )
• No Accidents ( 78 )
• Personal Use Only ( 41 )

Engine & Drivetrain

Transmission.

• Automatic ( 105 )

Engine Type

• Gas ( 100 )
• Flex-Fuel (FFV) ( 5 )
• Front Wheel Drive ( 83 )
• All Wheel Drive ( 22 )
• 4 cylinders ( 74 )
• 6 cylinders ( 31 )

Exterior Color

• White ( 29 )
• Dark Red ( 20 )
• Gray ( 19 )
• Black ( 17 )
• Silver ( 15 )
• Dark Blue ( 2 )

Interior Color

• Black ( 73 )
• Light Brown ( 1 )

Total Seating

• 5 Seats ( 16 )
• 7 Seats ( 89 )

Comfort & Convenience

• 3rd Row Seating ( 93 )
• Audio And Cruise Controls On Steering Wheel ( 52 )
• Auto Climate Control ( 1 )
• Fold Flat Rear Seats ( 29 )
• Heated Seats ( 12 )
• Heated Steering Wheel ( 6 )
• Keyless Entry Start ( 95 )
• Leather Seats ( 27 )
• Multi-zone Climate Control ( 52 )
• Navigation ( 8 )
• Power Driver Seat ( 46 )
• Remote Start ( 6 )
• Telescopic Steering Wheel ( 71 )
• Trip Computer ( 50 )
• Alarm ( 44 )
• Automatic Emergency Braking ( 52 )
• Back-Up Camera ( 64 )
• Occupant Sensing Airbag ( 29 )
• Parking Sensors ( 41 )
• Stability Control ( 95 )
• Tire Pressure Warning ( 51 )

Engine & Exterior

• AWD/4WD ( 8 )
• Heated Mirrors ( 52 )
• Roof Rack ( 44 )
• Sunroof Moonroof ( 25 )
• Towing Hitch ( 28 )
• Upgraded Headlights ( 23 )
• Upgraded Tires ( 19 )

Entertainment

• AUX Audio Inputs ( 44 )
• Bluetooth ( 66 )
• USB Inputs ( 3 )

Options & Packages

• 17" x 6.5" Aluminum Wheels ( 1 )
• 19" x 7.0" Gloss Black Aluminum Wheels ( 1 )
• 3.6L V6 24-Valve VVT Engine ( 9 )
• 50 State Emissions ( 5 )
• 6-Speed Automatic 62TE Transmission ( 5 )
• American Value Package Quick Order Package 22D ( 1 )
• Black ( 9 )
• Black Side Roof Rails ( 4 )
• Blacktop Package ( 14 )
• Chrome Appearance Group ( 1 )
• Comfort/Convenience Group (Fleet) ( 1 )
• Compact Spare Tire ( 4 )
• Connectivity Group ( 8 )
• Crossroad Plus Quick Order Package 22V ( 2 )
• Crossroad Plus Quick Order Package 28V ( 1 )
• Crossroad Quick Order Package 22U ( 1 )
• Driver Convenience Group ( 4 )
• Engine Block Heater ( 3 )
• Family Entertainment Group ( 1 )
• Flexible Seating Group ( 6 )
• Front License Plate Attachment Screws ( 8 )
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The Eclipse Chaser

As millions of americans prepare to see a total solar eclipse, a retired astrophysicist known as “mr. eclipse,” discusses the celestial phenomenon..

This transcript was created using speech recognition software. While it has been reviewed by human transcribers, it may contain errors. Please review the episode audio before quoting from this transcript and email [email protected] with any questions.

Can you hear — Fred, can you hear me?

[DISTORTED SPEECH]:

The internet is a little wonky.

OK. Well, [DISTORTED SPEECH]: Arizona. So the internet speed here isn’t really fast.

I think we’re going to call — yeah, I think we’re going to call you back on a — for the first time in a really long time — a landline.

[PHONE RINGING]

Hey, Fred, it’s Michael Barbaro.

You can hear me OK?

I can hear you.

Perfect. So, Fred, where exactly am I reaching you?

I’m in Portal, Arizona, in a little community called Arizona Sky Village. And it’s a very rural community. So our internet and phone lines are not very good. And the nearest grocery store is 60 miles away.

Wow. And why would you choose to live in such a remote place with such bad internet?

Because the sky is dark. It’s like the sky was a hundred years ago before cities encroached on all of the country. I guess you’d call it an astronomy development. Mainly, amateur astronomers who have built homes here far from city lights for the express purpose of studying the sky.

[MUSIC PLAYING]

So it’s literally a community where once the sun goes down, it’s pitch black. And some, perhaps all of you, are stargazing?

Yes, exactly.

Well, I think I’m beginning to understand why you might have the nickname that you do. Can you just tell our listeners what that nickname is?

My nickname is Mr. Eclipse.

From “The New York Times,” I’m Michael Barbaro. This is “The Daily.” Today’s total solar eclipse will be watched by millions of people across North America, none of them as closely as Fred Espenak, a longtime NASA scientist who’s devoted his entire life to studying, chasing, and popularizing the wonder that is an eclipse.

It’s Monday, April 8.

Fred, help me understand how you become Mr. Eclipse, how you go from being Fred to this seemingly very hard-earned nickname of Mr. Eclipse.

Well, I was visiting my grandparents at their summer home. And it was a partial eclipse of the sun back in the early 1960s. And I was a 10 - or 12-year-old kid. I got my parents to get me a small telescope. And I watched some of the partial phases. And it was really interesting.

And I started reading about eclipses. And I found out that as interesting as a partial eclipse is, a total eclipse is far more interesting. The moon is only 1/400 the diameter of the sun. It’s tiny compared to the sun. But it’s 400 times closer to the Earth. So it’s just this incredible coincidence that the moon and sun appear to be the same size in the sky. And once in a while, the moon passes directly between the Earth and the sun. And you’re plunged into this very strange midday twilight.

But they’re limited to a very small geographic areas to see a total eclipse. And this little book I was studying had a map of the world, showing upcoming paths of total solar eclipses. And I realized that one was passing through North America about 600 miles from where I lived. And that eclipse was in 1970.

And I was reading about this in 1963, 1964. And I made a promise to myself that I was going to get to that eclipse in 1970 to see it because I thought it was a one chance in a lifetime to see a total eclipse of the sun.

So just to be very clear, you see a partial eclipse, and you immediately think to yourself, that was fine. But I need the real thing. I need a full eclipse. And you happen to find out, around this time, that a real eclipse is coming but in seven years.

Right. I mean, there were other eclipses between that time and seven years in the future. But they were in other parts of the world. And I couldn’t buy an airplane ticket and fly to Europe or Australia.

And by 1970, I’d been waiting for this. And by this point, I had just gotten a driver’s license. And I convinced my parents to let me drive the car 600 miles to get down into the path of totality to see this great event.

Wow. Wait, from where to where?

From Staten Island, New York, down to a little town in North Carolina.

How did you convince your parents to let you do that? I mean, that’s —

Well, I had seven years to work on it.

[LAUGHS]: Right.

And I was just a nerdy kid. I didn’t get into trouble. I was interested in science. I was out in the woods, studying frogs and wildlife and stuff. So this was just a natural progression of the type of things I would normally do.

Right. OK. So I wonder if you can describe this journey you end up taking from Staten Island. How does the trip unfold as you’re headed on this 600 mile?

So, I think, on March 6, 1970, it was a Friday. My friend and I left to drive to the eclipse path. We probably got on the road probably at 5:00 AM because it was going to be a very long day.

And we’ve got a detailed map in the car, which I’ve plotted the eclipse path on. And we’re just trying to get far enough south to get into the path of the eclipse, which for us is easternmost Virginia or Eastern North Carolina. And I drive and drive and drive all day long. Very long day.

We get down to North Carolina right about maybe 6:00 PM. And we just see this little town in North Carolina that we’re driving through. And it happens to have a convenient motel right in the center of the path. And that was good enough. Got a room available. And we check in. And that’s where we’re going to watch the eclipse from.

And the next morning was eclipse day. It was a bright, crisp, sunny morning. There weren’t any clouds at all in the sky. And I was amazed that outside the back of the motel, in this grassy field, there were dozens and dozens of people with telescopes out there, specifically there for the eclipse that morning.

We were really excited about this. We set up our — my telescope. And we had another camera set up to watch it. And we walked around and marveled at some of the other people and their telescopes and discussed the eclipse with them. And the eclipse started probably around noon or 1:00 in the afternoon.

Describe the actual event itself, the eclipse. How did it begin?

Well, all solar eclipses begin as a partial eclipse. And the sun is gradually covered by the moon as the moon takes larger and larger pieces out of the sun, as it slowly crawls across the sun’s surface. And you don’t really notice much going on with a naked eye.

It’s really only in the last 10 minutes or so that you start to notice changes in the environment because now enough of the sun has been covered, upwards of maybe 90 percent of the sun. And you start to notice the temperature falling. There’s a chill in the air.

Also, since so much of the sun is covered, the daylight starts to take on an anemic quality. It’s weak. The sun is still too bright to look at. But the surroundings, the environment is not as bright as it was a half hour earlier.

You start to notice animals reacting to the dwindling sunlight. They start acting like it’s sunset. And they start performing some of their evening rituals, like birds roosting, perhaps calling their evening songs. And plants start closing up and the dropping sunlight. And then the dropping temperatures.

And there’s an acceleration now of all these effects. The temperature drop, the drop in the sunlight, it starts happening faster and faster and getting darker and darker. And maybe about a minute before the total eclipse began, we noticed strange patterns on the ground beneath us, on the grassy field that we were on — these ripples racing across the field. And these are something called shadow bands.

They look a lot like the rippling patterns that you would see on the bottom of a swimming pool, bands of light and dark, and moving very quickly across the ground. The sky is — it’s a dark blue. And it’s getting darker rapidly in this dwindling sunlight. And you go from daylight to twilight in just 10 or 20 seconds. It’s almost like someone has the hand on the rheostat and turns the house lights down in the theater.

You just see the light just go right down.

And the sky gets dark enough that the corona, the outer atmosphere of the sun, starts emerging from the background sky. This ring or halo of gas that surrounds the sun, and it’s visible around the moon, which is in silhouette against the sun. And along one edge of the moon is this bright bead of sunlight because that’s the last remaining piece of the sun before it becomes total.

And this is the diamond ring effect because you’ve got the ring of the corona and this dazzling jewel along one edge of it. You only get to see this for 10 or 15 seconds — it’s very fleeting — before the moon completely covers the sun’s disk. And totality begins. Suddenly, you’re in this twilight of the moon’s shadow.

And you look around the horizon. And you’re seeing the colors of sunrise or sunset 360 degrees around the horizon because you’re looking out the edge of the moon’s shadow. And looking back up into the sky, the sun is gone now. And you see this black disk of the moon in silhouette surrounded by the sun’s corona.

Maybe this says more about my nature than anything else, but what you’re describing, a little bit, feels like the end of the world.

Well, I think, when you see this all transpire, you can easily understand how people thought this was the end of the world because it seems far outside of the realms of nature. It seems supernatural. So you can see how people panicked that didn’t understand what was going on.

That was not your reaction?

No. I think it’s a sense of belonging — belonging to this incredible universe, both belonging and a humbleness that how minuscule we are. And yet we’re a part of this fantastic cosmic wheel of motion in the solar system. You almost get a three-dimensional sense of the motions of the Earth and the moon around the sun when you see this clockwork displayed right in front of you, this mechanics of the eclipse taking place.

It almost lifts you up off the planet, and you can look back down at the solar system and see how it’s all put together. And you’ve only got to, in that case — in that particular eclipse, it was only 2 and 1/2 minutes to look at this.

Wow. It’s kind of a clock in your head, saying, you don’t have much of this.

You don’t have much of it. And it almost seems like time stops.

And at the same time, all of a sudden, the eclipse is over. Those 2 minutes just raced by. And it’s over. All of a sudden, the diamond ring forms again on the opposite side of the moon, as the sun starts to become uncovered at the end of totality. And the diamond ring appears. It grows incredibly bright in just a few seconds. And you can’t look at it anymore. It’s too bright. You’ve got to put your filters back on and cover your telescope with a solar filter so it doesn’t get damaged. And you’re trembling because of this event.

Everybody was cheering and shouting and yelling. I mean, you would have thought you were at a sports game, and the home team just scored a touchdown. Just everybody screaming at the top of their lungs. And I immediately started thinking that this can’t be a once in a lifetime experience. I’ve got to see this again.

We’ll be right back.

OK. So, Fred, it’s the early 1970s. And you are not Mr. Eclipse yet. You’re just a kid who felt something very big when you watched an eclipse. So how did you end up becoming the premier authority that you now are on eclipses?

Well, after that 1970 eclipse, I started looking into upcoming solar eclipses so I could get a chance to see the sun’s corona again. And the next total eclipse was in Eastern Canada in July of 1972. And I started thinking about that eclipse. And by then, I was going to be in college.

And I started planning because that one was still something I could drive to. It was 1,200 miles instead of 600 miles.

So the summer of 1972 rolls around. And I drove up to the eclipse in Quebec to see totality and was unfortunately clouded out of the eclipse. I saw some of the partial phases. But clouds moved in and obscured the sun for that view of the sun’s corona.

You were robbed.

I was robbed. And I realized, well, I’ve got to expand my outlook on what’s an acceptable distance to travel to see a total eclipse because the next total eclipse then, in 1973, was through the Sahara Desert in Northern Africa. So I traveled to the Sahara desert for the eclipse, where we had decent weather, not perfect but decent weather. And we got to see totality there.

You saw totality in the desert?

In the desert. In the Sahara Desert. After that, it was just trying to get to every total eclipse I possibly could get to.

At this point, you’re clearly starting to become an eclipse chaser. And I don’t even know if such a thing existed at that moment.

Yeah. I don’t know if it was called that then, but certainly, yeah.

And if you’ll permit me a question that might seem maybe dopey to someone in your field, after you’ve seen one or two or three of these, do they start to blend in together and become a little bit the same?

Not at all. Each one is distinctly different. The sun itself is dramatically different. The sun’s corona is different at each eclipse because the corona is a product of the sun’s magnetic field. And that magnetic field is changing every day. So the details, the fine structure in the sun’s corona is always different. So every eclipse is dramatically different. The appearance of the sun’s corona.

Right. If you look at one Renoir, it’s not the same as the next one. You’re describing the corona of each eclipse as its own work of art, basically.

Exactly. Yeah.

So as you’re chasing these eclipses around the world, what is the place of an eclipse in your day-to-day academic studies and, soon enough, your professional work?

So I went to grad school at University of Toledo and did some work at Kitt Peak National Observatory, learning the ins and outs of photometric photometry — that is, measuring the brightness of stars. And eventually, this led to a job opening at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.

And I got interested in the idea of predicting eclipses and started studying the mathematics of how to do this. And I took it over unofficially and started publishing these technical maps and details. And we published about a dozen books through NASA on upcoming eclipses. People would just write me a letter and say they wanted a copy of the eclipse bulletin for such and such an eclipse. And I would stuff it in an envelope and mail it to them.

So you take it upon yourself to make sure that everyone is going to know when the next eclipse is coming?

And no doubt, during this period, you keep going to each and every eclipse. And I wonder which of them stand out to you.

Well, I’ve seen total eclipses from Australia, from Africa, from the Altiplanos in Bolivia, from the ice sheet on the coast of Antarctica, and even from Northern China, on the edge of the Gobi Desert. But one of the most notable eclipses for me was I traveled to India to see a 41-second eclipse, which was very short. And besides seeing a great eclipse in India, I also met my future wife there. She was on the same trip.

I have to hear that story.

Well, she had been trying to see a total eclipse for about 25 years.

She tried to see the 1970 eclipse. But her friends who were going to drive down from Pennsylvania down to North Carolina talked her out of it at the 11th hour.

They talked her out of seeing the same eclipse that was your first total eclipse that was so important to you?

Yes. And they talked her out of it because from Pennsylvania, they were going to have maybe a 90 percent eclipse. They didn’t know any better. They thought that was good enough. And she regretted that decision.

So then she said, OK, well, I’ve got to get to the next total eclipse, which was in Quebec in 1972, the same one that was my second eclipse. And we were probably within five miles of each other in Quebec. And we were both clouded out. Then she was married. She was raising kids. She got busy with domestic life for 20 years. She became a widow.

So now, 1995, there’s this 41-second eclipse in India that is very difficult to get to. It’s halfway around the world. But she’s still itching to see a total eclipse. And we joined the same expedition, a travel group, of 30 eclipse chasers and end up in India for the eclipse. And we have fantastic weather. It’s perfect.

She was in tears after totality. She had been waiting so long to see it. And we struck up a friendship on that trip. By the time the 1998 eclipse was taking place in the Caribbean, at that point, we were together. That was our first eclipse to observe as a couple. I think our wedding cake had a big eclipse on the top of the cake.

[LAUGHS]: Perfect.

We made a music CD for the wedding that we played during the reception. And of course, all the music on the CD had sun and moon themes to it.

Nothing I can say, a total eclipse of the heart

Of course, we had “Total Eclipse of the Heart.” It was a must-have.

Had to. Had to.

It strikes me, Fred, that eclipses are such an organizing principle in your life. Your life seems to literally orbit around them. When you were a kid, you started planning for them years in advance. This work becomes central to your career. It’s how you meet your wife.

And you said, when I asked you, about each eclipse that they’re all different. And obviously, you’re different at each eclipse because time has passed. Your life has changed. And it just feels like your life is being lived in a kind of ongoing conversation with this phenomenon of the sun and the moon overlapping.

Well, the eclipses are like benchmarks that I can use to figure out what else was going on in my life during these times, because I remember the dates of every single eclipse I’ve been to. And if I see a photograph of the solar corona shot during any particular eclipse, I know what eclipse that was. I can recognize the pattern of the corona like a fingerprint.

That’s amazing.

And I the year of the eclipse. It reminds me of when Pat and I got married and between which eclipse we were getting married and had to plan our wedding so it didn’t interfere with any kind of eclipse trips.

And they just serve as benchmarks or markers for the rest of my life of when various eclipses take place. So they’re easy for marking the passage of time.

So we are, of course, talking to you a few days before this year’s eclipse, which I cannot fathom you missing. So where are you planning to watch this total eclipse?

Pat and I are leaving for Mazatlán, Mexico, actually tomorrow. And we’ve got about 80 people joining us down in Mazatlán for this eclipse in our tour group.

And for you, of course, this year’s eclipse is just the latest in a very long line of eclipses. But I think, for the rest of us — and here, I’m thinking about myself — this is really going to be my first total eclipse, at least that I can remember. And for my two little kids, it’s absolutely going to be their first.

And given the hard-earned wisdom that you’ve accumulated in all your decades of chasing eclipses around the world, I wonder if you can give us just a little bit of advice for how to best live inside this very brief window of a total solar eclipse, to make sure, not to be cliche, but that we make it count.

Well, I think one mistake that people tend to make is getting preoccupied with recording everything in their lives, what they had for lunch, what they had for dinner. And seeing the eclipse is something that you want to witness firsthand. Try to be present in seeing the eclipse in the moment of it. So don’t get preoccupied with recording every instant of it.

Sit back and try to take in the entire experience because those several minutes pass by so rapidly. But you’ll replay them in your mind over and over and over again. And you don’t want technology getting between you and that experience. And remember to take your eclipse glasses off when totality begins. Note how dark it gets during totality.

Take the glasses off because?

Well, the glasses protect your eyes from the sun’s bright disk. But when totality begins, the sun’s bright disk is gone. So if you use your solar eclipse glasses to try to look at the corona, you won’t see anything. You’ll just see blackness. You’ve got to remove the eclipse glasses in order to see the corona. And it’s completely safe.

And it’s an incredible sight to behold. But during totality, you just want to look around without the glasses on. And take in the sights. Take in the horizon, 360 degrees, surrounding you with these twilight colors and sunset colors.

You’ll easily be able to see Jupiter and Venus shining on either side of the sun during totality. And look at the details in the sun’s corona, fine, wispy textures, and any possible red prominences hugging against the moon’s disk during totality.

And let’s say it’s now the moment of totality, and you, Mr. Eclipse, can whisper one thing into someone’s ear as they’re watching. What would you say to them?

Enjoy. Just take it all in.

Well, Fred, thank you very much. We really appreciate it.

No, thank you. I hope everybody has some clear sky.

After today, the next total solar eclipse to be visible from the continental United States will occur 20 years from now, in 2044. In other words, you might as well watch today’s.

Here’s what else you need to know today. Israel has fired two officers in connection with the deadly airstrike on aid workers from the World Central Kitchen who were killed last week while delivering food to civilians in Gaza. In a report released on Friday, Israel blamed their deaths on a string of errors made by the military. The airstrike, Israel said, was based on insufficient and incorrect evidence that a passenger traveling with the workers was armed.

Meanwhile, Israel said it withdrew a division of ground troops from Southern Gaza on Sunday, leaving no soldiers actively patrolling the area. The move raises questions about Israel’s strategy as the war drags into its sixth month. In particular, it casts doubt on Israel’s plans to invade Rafah, Gaza’s southernmost city, an invasion that the United States has asked Israel not to carry out for fear of large-scale civilian casualties.

Today’s episode was produced by Alex Stern and Sydney Harper, with help from Will Reid and Jessica Cheung. It was edited by Devon Taylor; fact-checked by Susan Lee; contains original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Corey Schreppel; and sound design by Elisheba Ittoop and Dan Powell. It was engineered by Chris Wood. Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Anthony Wallace.

[THEME MUSIC]

That’s it for “The Daily.” I’m Michael Barbaro. See you tomorrow.

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Hosted by Michael Barbaro

Produced by Sydney Harper and Alex Stern

With Will Reid and Jessica Cheung

Edited by Devon Taylor

Original music by Dan Powell ,  Marion Lozano ,  Elisheba Ittoop and Corey Schreppel

Sound Design by Elisheba Ittoop and Dan Powell

Engineered by Chris Wood

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music

Today, millions of Americans will have the opportunity to see a rare total solar eclipse.

Fred Espenak, a retired astrophysicist known as Mr. Eclipse, was so blown away by an eclipse he saw as a teenager that he dedicated his life to traveling the world and seeing as many as he could.

Mr. Espenak discusses the eclipses that have punctuated and defined the most important moments in his life, and explains why these celestial phenomena are such a wonder to experience.

On today’s episode

Fred Espenak, a.k.a. “Mr. Eclipse,” a former NASA astrophysicist and lifelong eclipse chaser.

Background reading

A total solar eclipse is coming. Here’s what you need to know.

Millions of people making plans to be in the path of the solar eclipse on Monday are expecting an awe-inspiring. What is that feeling?

The eclipse that ended a war and shook the gods forever.

There are a lot of ways to listen to The Daily. Here’s how.

We aim to make transcripts available the next workday after an episode’s publication. You can find them at the top of the page.

Fact-checking by Susan Lee .

Special thanks to Anthony Wallace.

The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Renan Borelli, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson and Nina Lassam.

Corey Schreppel leads the technical team that supports all Times audio shows, including “The Daily,” “Hard Fork,” “The Run-Up,” and “Modern Love.” More about Corey Schreppel

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